What if a rubber duck could become a cult icon? That is exactly what happened with Tubbz. The story behind Tubbz is one of creative boldness, smart licensing, and a whole lot of pop culture love. These quirky, duck-shaped figurines have carved out a serious space in the US collectibles market, turning casual fans into dedicated collectors almost overnight.
Key Takeaways
• Tubbz collectibles are officially licensed pop culture figurines, not bath toys, produced by UK-based Numskull Designs.
• They launched around 2018 and have grown into a global phenomenon with hundreds of licensed characters across gaming, TV, and music.
• Limited edition and licensed variants, including Alice Cooper collectibles, make certain figures highly sought after among serious collectors.
Metal Gear Solid: The Orange Box TUBBZ (Boxed Edition)
$24.99
Metal Gear Solid: The Orange Box TUBBZ Boxed Collectible Metal Gear Solid: The Orange Box TUBBZ takes iconic stealth to absurd new heights, because this time the box is the duck. With a bold orange beak peeking out from an… read more
What Is the Story Behind Tubbz?
The story behind Tubbz starts with a simple, brilliant idea: take the nostalgic rubber duck and reimagine it as your favorite fictional character. Tubbz are officially licensed, collectible rubber duck figurines featuring characters from gaming, TV, movies, and music. Each one captures a beloved character in unmistakably duck form, complete with costume details and accessories.
These are not generic novelty items. Every Tubbz figure is the result of formal licensing agreements with major entertainment brands, making them genuine pop culture collectibles that fans and collectors can trust.
Who Created and Owns Tubbz?
Tubbz is created and owned by Numskull Designs, a UK-based company specializing in gaming and entertainment merchandise. Numskull has built a reputation for producing high-quality, officially licensed products that sit at the intersection of fandom and design. They conceived the Tubbz concept as a fresh take on collectible figures, blending humor and craft in a way that resonates with fans of all ages.
Is Tubbz a UK-Based Brand?
Yes, Tubbz is a UK company. Numskull Designs is headquartered in the United Kingdom, but the brand has a strong presence in the US market. American collectors can shop the full range at the official TUBBZ US store, which stocks the latest licensed figures and limited-edition drops tailored for US-based fans.
How Long Has Tubbz Been Around?
Tubbz launched around 2018 and quickly gained traction with gaming and pop culture communities. Within just a few years, the brand expanded its licensing portfolio to include hundreds of characters from franchises like Crash Bandicoot, Doctor Who, The Lord of the Rings, and many more.
The collector community grew organically, fueled by social media and a steady stream of new limited edition figurines that kept fans coming back. Today, Tubbz is recognized globally as a standout collectible toy brand with serious shelf appeal.
What Makes Tubbz Unique as a Product?
Tubbz figures are made from PVC, not traditional rubber. While they share the classic duck silhouette, the PVC construction gives each figure durability and allows for intricate paint applications and costume details. The result is a premium collectible that holds its shape and color over time.
Why Tubbz Are Not Bath Toys
Do not let the duck shape fool you. Tubbz are display collectibles, not bath toys. They are not designed to go in water, and submerging them could damage the paint and detailing. Think of them as you would any premium figurine: they belong on a shelf, a desk, or a display case, not in a bathtub.
Spotlight: Alice Cooper Collectibles
Among the most talked-about licensed releases are the Alice Cooper collectibles from TUBBZ. Rock fans and serious collectors alike have made these some of the most recognizable figures in the lineup. Here is what is available:
Alice Cooper TUBBZ (Boxed Edition)
• A duck-shaped figure modeled after the legendary rock icon Alice Cooper
• Dressed in his signature black costume with theatrical makeup details
• Presented in a branded box, making it ideal as a gift or display piece
• A great entry point into the Alice Cooper collectibles range
Alice Cooper TUBBZ (Collector's Edition)
• An elevated version of the Alice Cooper duck figure with enhanced detailing
• Comes in premium collector-grade packaging designed for display
• Limited availability makes this one of the more sought-after Alice Cooper collectibles on the market
• A must-have for fans of the Godfather of Shock Rock
Sports: Ice Hockey TUBBZ (Mini Edition)
$9.99
Ice Hockey Sports TUBBZ Mini Collectible Duck Blades sharp. Game on. This mini duck hits the rink with full-force energy, hockey stick in hand, and that unmistakable TUBBZ colourway. Built for speed, grit, and going headfirst into every face-off. Key… read more
Are Tubbz Worth Collecting?
Absolutely. Tubbz holds real collector value, particularly for limited edition figurines and exclusive licensed releases. Figures tied to major franchises or iconic musicians, like the Alice Cooper collectibles, are consistently among the most discussed in collector communities online. Retired figures often fetch higher prices on the secondary market once they sell out.
Tubbz in the Broader collectibles Market
The global collectibles market was valued at over USD 400 billion in 2023 and continues to grow. Within that space, gaming and entertainment merchandise such as Tubbz appeals to a younger, digitally connected collector base that values humor, design, and licensing authenticity equally.
Tubbz sits in a smart niche. They are affordable enough to be accessible and distinctive enough to be desirable. That combination drives both casual gift purchases and serious collector investment.
Conclusion
The story behind Tubbz is ultimately a story about creative confidence. Numskull Designs took a universally loved object, the rubber duck, and transformed it into something collectors genuinely want to own. With officially licensed products spanning music, gaming, TV, and film, Tubbz has cemented its place as a beloved collectible toy brand with staying power.
Whether you are just starting your collection or looking to add a showstopper piece, exploring the TUBBZ range is worth your time. Check out the latest drops at tubbzus.com and find your next favorite figure.
FAQs about the Story Behind Tubbz
What is the story behind Tubbz?
The story behind Tubbz begins with Numskull Designs. This UK company reimagined the classic rubber duck as a licensed pop culture collectible, launching around 2018 and expanding rapidly across gaming, music, and entertainment.
Who created the pop culture-themed rubber duck figures?
Numskull Designs, a UK-based merchandise company with deep roots in gaming and entertainment licensing, created Tubbz figures.
Are TUBBZ ducks rubber?
No. Despite the duck design, Tubbz figures are made from PVC, which allows for more detailed paint finishes and longer-lasting color than standard rubber.
Can TUBBZ ducks go in water?
No. Tubbz are display collectibles and are not designed for use in water. Submerging them can damage the paint and detailing.
Are TUBBZ worth collecting?
Yes, particularly limited edition and licensed figures. The story behind Tubbz is one of consistent growth and collector demand, making retired and exclusive figures increasingly valuable over time.
